This short 1.5 mile loop utilizes the West Shore Trail and the Lakeland Trail in Onondaga Lake County Park.  Don't be surprised to see bikers and other walkers while doing this loop, however it is much more secluded and less traveled than the East Shore Trail.  From the parking area follow the paved path under the New York State Thruway bridge.  As you walk under the bridge your likely to see people fishing on your left.  Soon you will see the Lakeland Trail on your right.  Stay on the paved West Shore Trail. 

There are benches along the way overlooking the lake, as well as many "cut over trails" on your right.  These side trails lead to the Lakeland Trail and if you need to shorten your loop, simply take one of these side trails and turn right onto the Lakeland Trail.  After walking 0.4 miles you'll pass a pavilion on your right and a nice lake overlook on your left.  From this overlook you can see the Syracuse skyline in the distance.  Take a look below for a YouTube video that highlights this view.  At 0.6 miles the trail veers to the right, away from the lake.  At 0.7 miles you will reach a junction.  For this short loop, you will turn right following the dirt road.  The paved West Shore Trail continues for another two miles to its end. 

In about 200 feet you will see another trail come in on your left.  This is the Lakeland Trail, this trail heads under I-690 and veers back to an overpass that was taken out by a truck a couple of years ago.  Now this trail dead ends, where before it went back to the West Shore Trail and make another loop option.  Stay straight on the dirt park road aka Lakeland Trail.  As you walk along the Lakeland Trail you'll notice what could be an old canal on your left before making your way back to the West Shore Trail.

When you reach the West Shore Trail at 1.35 miles, turn left following the paved trail back under the Thruway bridge and back to the parking area.  Thanks for visiting our website!

The paved West Shore Trail

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